rogerfederer.com - Superb first round in Rome

Superb first round in Rome

Roger showed an excellent match against Juan Ignacio Chela (ATP 30) in Rome today. He beat the Argentinian 6-2, 6-1 in 68 minutes in his quest for a first title at the Masters Series tournament.

Upon his first appearance in the "Foro Italico" since 2004 - when he was defeated in the second round by Albert Costa - Roger was clearly in charge. He scored a total of eleven break-balls, five of which he made use of, three aces and a positive ratio of winners to unforced errors (29-23). The new head-to-head is now at 0-4 from Chela's point of view; only upon one occasion was the Argentinian able to score a set.

Roger has defeated both possible opponents for the next round in the one match they have disputed. He won against Dimitri Tursunow (ATP 32) on his way to the title in Key Biscayne this year; Potito Starace (ATP 81) lost to Roger in Gstaad in 2004. The Italian - who should be even stronger with the fantastic spectators supporting him - has been Roger's training partner on several occasions.